Today we’re chatting with Ash Donner from Victoria, one of 30 remarkable women vying for the Miss Universe Australia 2025 crown, to be decided on August 15 at Crown Perth’s Grand Ballroom.
So, why don’t you start by telling us a bit about yourself?
You can call me Ash, no one ever calls me Ashley! I’m based in Melbourne with proud South African roots, though I’ve always had a strong desire to live and work overseas. I’m in my final year of a double degree in Business and Marketing, while balancing a career in corporate fashion marketing at a large Australian fashion retailer. Outside of work and study, I love being creative, whether that’s through content creation, vlogging almost every day of my life, or sharing my bubbly, animated personality online. People always tell me I remind them of a real-life cartoon character! I’m naturally social; I love talking and meeting new people. I’m grateful that my career in media has given me the chance to do that, such as attending events, speaking publicly, and creating content.
What inspired you to take the leap and enter Miss Universe Australia?
I live my life as a “yes” girl, every new opportunity is a chance to challenge myself, grow, and open doors to future success. Heading into my final year of university, I knew it was the perfect time to dive headfirst into my dreams and give it my all. I’ve seen the incredible opportunities this program has given past contestants, from personal growth to career-defining moments. I’ve always dreamt of building a career as an Australian media personality – hosting podcasts, brand ambassadorships, and event appearances. So I thought, why not me? For so long, I questioned why I wasn’t “born talented” in things like sport, dance, or singing. But over time, I realised my talent is connecting with people, building relationships, creating conversations, and making others feel seen. This program felt like the perfect platform to embrace and grow that gift.
As part of the program, you had the amazing opportunity to travel to Vietnam, and stay at the beautiful Hoiana Resort. How was that experience for you?
Living in what I like to call the ‘Miss Universe Universe’ was honestly one of the best weeks of my life. It’s not every day you get to go on a girls’ trip with 30 women you’ve never met before and instantly form friendships. Being surrounded by so many beautiful, driven women really pushes you to become the best version of yourself.
By the end of the week, after the walking classes, swim shoots, and NIDA workshops, I think we had all grown so much and felt far more confident than we did on day one. And I can’t forget the breakfast buffet! Coming home and making oats just wasn’t the same.
What would you say was the highlight of the trip?
I remember coming back to the hotel room after our visit to Hearing and Beyond, and just pausing in the hallway, staring at the view for a good five minutes in complete disbelief at the life I was living and the experiences I was so lucky to have. We visited Hearing and Beyond in Vietnam, a school for deaf and hard-of-hearing children, where we had the privilege of learning sign language, playing games, and forming genuine connections with the kids. It really put into perspective how privileged I am to have access to opportunities, education, and experiences that so many others don’t. It was such a heartwarming experience.
As part of the trip, you also took part in your official swimwear shoot with Unnecessary the Label. How was that experience for you?
I don’t even have words to describe how insane my swim shoot was! It literally felt like a James Bond moment, with spotlights on me in the middle of Vietnam. The whole shoot felt like the team was creating art, and the white bikinis popped perfectly in the shots. I felt so confident and beautiful, and I’m so excited to see the final photos!
Your next question comes from our current Miss Universe Australia, Zoe Creed. If your younger self could see you today, not just on this stage but as a person, what do you think she’d be most proud of and why?
My authenticity, take me or leave me. I think my younger self would be most proud that nothing in life, no situation, and no person has ever changed who I am at my core. I’ve stayed true to myself and my values through every high and low, and that’s something I’m really proud of. I’m a very hardworking person who always puts in the effort to grow and learn wherever possible. I wake up each day genuinely excited to create new opportunities for myself, and for the little girl who always dreamed big.
With everyone bringing their own unique flair to the program, what would you say sets you apart from the other contestants?
This is something I’ve truly learned through the program and carried with me over the past few months: no one is like Ash Donner. At 21, I’m confident in who I am, what I value, and the life I want to build. I’ve pushed myself to get comfortable being uncomfortable, and I genuinely believe my personality is my greatest asset. My dad has always said I’m emotionally strong, my highs aren’t too high and my lows aren’t too low, and over time, I’ve realised he’s right. I’m really good at handling pressure and always stay calm and level-headed, even in tough situations, which helps me be a great leader. That’s something I’ve come to really appreciate about myself. I often say that anyone can present themselves online, but when you strip everything back and put people in an empty room, all you have is your personality, and mine is incredibly positive. I’m always smiling, always laughing, and genuinely excited to show up for life every day.
What’s something about you that people might find surprising or interesting?
Because of my love for fashion, beauty, social media, and chatty videos, people often assume I’m just a bit airy-fairy. But the truth is, I have a huge passion for business. I spend a lot of my time listening to podcasts and reading books about business, success, the brain, and neuroscience. In fact, I even won the business management prize at school for the top student, which might surprise a lot of people!
If you could work on any dream project, with no limits on time or resources, what would it be?
I have always wanted to start a podcast based on the ‘girls stuff/growing up’ books we used to get when we were younger, interviewing incredible people and focusing on different aspects of girlhood. I want it to serve as a ‘big sis’ centre for young girls.
Dreaming even bigger, I’d love to one day create a central entertainment hub in Australia. I’ve always been drawn to the entertainment world, and the idea of building a space that brings together food, media, music, events, and creative energy all in one place is something I’ve imagined for years. A space that celebrates culture, creativity, and connection, that’s the dream.
We have a few quick questions to wrap up the interview:
What’s a song that never fails to lift your mood?
I love “Where You Are” by John Summit. It reminds me of my friends and family all dancing together and having the best time at one of my birthdays a few years ago!
What does confidence mean to you?
To me, confidence means feeling genuinely happy and secure in who you are, so much so that when others around you succeed, it inspires and motivates you rather than sparking jealousy.
If you had to swap lives with someone for a day, who would it be and why?
I am obsessed with the Mel Robbins podcast, so I would love to live a day in her brain and see how she approaches the world.
What’s one thing you always have in your handbag (besides your phone)?
If anyone knows me, I always have at least five lip liners on me! I can actually do my liner with my eyes closed!
Window or aisle seat on a flight?
Definitely window! I have to watch the plane take off, it’s part of the experience. Plus, my secret talent is sleeping on planes, and the window seat is essential for that.
Help Ash and the Miss Universe Australia Finalists Make a Difference.
Ash, along with the other Miss Universe Australia Finalists, have collectively raised over $500,000 to support ToyBox and its official 2025 charities Camp Quality, Ocean Heroes and Ronald McDonald House. You can donate now using the link below.
